For drug companies and medical equipment makers, the Sunshine Act could mean some dark days ahead as they struggle with cost, complexity, and even legal risks.
The provision, known more formally as the Physician Payment Sunshine Act, requires manufacturers of drugs, medical devices, biologics, and medical supplies that are covered under Medicare, Medicaid, or a state health insurance program to report payments to physicians (including dentists, optometrists, and chiropractors) and teaching hospitals on an annual basis to the Department of Health and Human Services.
